Stochastic Modeling of Within-Host Dynamics of Plasmodium Falciparum

Abstract

Malaria remains a major public health burden in South-East Asia and Africa. Mathematical models of within-host infection dynamics and drug action, developed in support of malaria elimination initiatives, have significantly advanced our understanding of the dynamics of infection and supported development of effective drug-treatment regimens. However, the mathematical models supporting these initiatives are predominately based on deterministic dynamics and therefore cannot capture stochastic phenomena such as extinction (no parasitized red blood cells) following treatment, with potential consequences for our interpretation of data sets in which recrudescence is observed. Here we develop a stoc..